Data Architect Job Description

WHAT DO DATA ARCHITECTS DO?

Can you see in patterns? Do you have an analytical mind that can take complex ideas and break them down into logical steps? Are you good with computers? You might be ready for a career as a data architect.

Data architects build build complex computer database systems for companies, either for the general public or for individual companies. They work with a team that looks at the needs of the database, the data that is available, and creates a blueprint for creating, testing and maintaining that database.

Data can be anything from financial records to marketing information or other personal information. Data architects work with database administrators and data analysts to ensure they can easily use and access data, work with management to create databases that will be usable and store the information required, figure out user needs and create solutions so that they can access data, create security plans and measures, maintain database integrity and plan for natural disasters and cyber attacks.

HOW MUCH DO DATA ARCHITECTS MAKE?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), computer systems analysts, which includes data architects, had a median annual income of $77,740 a year, or $37.38 per hour.

WHAT ARE THE EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS?

Data architects need at least a bachelor's degree in computer science, information science, or similar fields. Larger firms might want people with master's degrees. On top of this, database architects must have a practical knowledge of database languages, the most common of which is SQL.

JOB SKILLS AND REQUIREMENTS

Analytical Skills: Data architects take a lot of information and translate it into a useable blueprint.

Communication Skills: Data architects are part of a team, working with database administrators, data analysts and management and need to be effective communicators.

Attention to Detail: Databases are complex, and a minute error can cause huge problems.

Logical Thinking: Data architects take code and data and turn it into logical patterns, so that it can be analyzed.

Problem-Solving Skills: Data architects look at an issue that needs to be solved and come up with solutions quickly.